Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation

The Improved Method for Treating Gum Recession

Gums recede for a number of reasons. Irritation is a primary factor, and this can be caused by the buildup of oral bacteria during gum disease, by brushing your teeth too aggressively or with a poor quality toothbrush with excessively stiff bristles, or not brushing and flossing frequently enough. Other causes include a change in hormone levels, clenching or grinding your teeth, being genetically predisposed to gum disease despite good oral hygiene or simply due to age.

Side Effects of Gum Recession

Gum recession has various negative consequences. The worst is the increased likelihood of decay, since exposed roots do not have a protective enamel coating, like the crowns of teeth. Tooth sensitivity is also common with gum recession, as the roots are somewhat porous, compared to enamel, exposing the tooth nerves to temperature changes from food and drinks. Finally, receding gums are a sign of age and significantly alter a patient’s smile. Many people just want to go back to the smile they had when they were younger.

How Pinhole Surgery Works

Gum recession was once fixed solely by grafting tissue from one part of the mouth to the areas around the gums. This involved cutting, suturing and extensive healing lasting a matter of weeks. Pain is a factor with grafting, at both the tissue donation site and the gums. Pinhole surgical technique, or PST, avoids all of these complications by taking advantage of the natural elasticity of gum tissue.

Just as elastic can be stretched to cover a greater area, your gums can be stretched to cover up the areas of gum recession. To do this, our Littleton family dentists simply make a small pinhole in the gums requiring repair. A dental probe is then inserted into the hole and used to release the gum tissue and stretch it down to the original position. Collagen fibers inserted underneath the gums through the same pinhole hold the tissue in its restored position. Healing takes place in a much shorter period than alternative gum surgery procedures – sometimes as quickly as overnight!

For more information about PST and to arrange a consultation, please call (303) 872-9436 today!